The 2025 Acura MDX: A Refined and Thrilling Luxury Crossover
The 2025 Acura MDX takes a commanding position in the mid-size luxury SUV segment, building on its legacy as Acura’s best-selling model and the top-selling 3-row luxury SUV of all time. With its aggressive new styling, high-performance options, and upgraded tech, this SUV continues to deliver a driving experience that blends premium comfort with sporty thrills, making it highly appealing to driving enthusiasts and families alike.
New Look and Trim Options
The MDX gets a refreshed, more aggressive front-end design for 2025, including a new mesh grille and updated bumpers. The A-Spec trim has also adopted the bolder Type S front fascia, giving it a sportier, high-performance appearance. New for 2025 is the A-Spec with Advance Package, which combines sport-focused styling with premium features like a head-up display, heated second-row seats, and a surround-view camera.
Interior Upgrades: A Luxurious Experience
Acura’s attention to detail is apparent in the cabin of the 2025 MDX. Leather dashboard stitching, open-pore wood accents, and metal finishes elevate the premium feel. Additionally, the 16-way adjustable front seats with massage functions, available on higher trims, make long drives a comfortable experience. The Advance Package now includes 9-mode massaging front seats, previously exclusive to the Type S, bringing an extra layer of luxury.
While the first and second rows are spacious and comfortable, the third row remains best suited for kids, as is typical for mid-size SUVs. Acura has also addressed cabin noise with laminated rear glass and enhanced sound insulation, ensuring a quieter ride even at highway speeds.
Tech and Infotainment: Big Upgrades for 2025
Tech-savvy buyers will appreciate the switch from the previous touchpad interface to a more intuitive 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities come standard, offering a seamless experience for today’s connected drivers. For audiophiles, the Bang & Olufsen sound system is a standout. The Technology Package and above trims boast a 19-speaker setup, while the Type S features an impressive 31-speaker system, Acura’s most powerful to date.
Performance: Power Meets Precision
The 2025 MDX comes in two flavors: the standard model with a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 and the Type S, which cranks up the excitement with a 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, but the Type S adds a sportier edge with air-spring suspension, delivering superior handling and ride comfort. Whether you’re on winding back roads or cruising through city streets, the MDX’s nimble handling makes it one of the most engaging SUVs in its class.
The Type S further impresses with its performance, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, outpacing the standard model’s 6.4-second time. It’s a thrilling ride for those who prioritize power without compromising on comfort.
AcuraWatch 360: Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a priority in the 2025 MDX, with all models featuring AcuraWatch 360, an upgraded suite of driver assistance systems. This includes new tech like Front Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Collision Mitigation, and Lane Change Assist—features enabled by a higher-capacity front-facing camera, radars on all four corners, and a capacitive touch sensor in the steering wheel. These systems work seamlessly to provide a safer, more intuitive driving experience, making highway commutes smoother and more stress-free.
Fuel Economy: Competitive for Its Class
Fuel efficiency is respectable for a mid-size luxury SUV. The standard MDX delivers 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the more performance-oriented Type S gets 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. While these figures won’t lead the segment, they are competitive for a vehicle of this size and power.
Final Verdict: A Standout Luxury SUV with Performance and Tech
The 2025 Acura MDX strikes a balance between luxury, performance, and value, making it an appealing choice for buyers seeking a refined yet thrilling driving experience. The Type S is perfect for those who crave power and performance, while the Technology Package offers a more balanced blend of features, comfort, and tech at a lower price point.
With its refreshed design, advanced technology, and performance-focused trims, the MDX remains a smart buy in the luxury SUV market, holding its ground against competitors while delivering a highly engaging drive.
If you’re in the market for a 3-row luxury SUV that provides a premium experience without the European price tag, the 2025 Acura MDX should be at the top of your list.
